No ATM! Sapzurro has no ATMs, so make sure you have enough cash to cover all your needs: accommodation, meals, activities and transport.
In brief
In Sapzurro, if you’re looking for the ideal beach, one that combines calm, beauty and proximity to the village, then Playa del Ica is an almost natural choice. For us, this is without a doubt the best option for enjoying the sea without straying too far, away from the hustle and bustle of the little port and the main beach near the muelle.
The beach isn’t huge, but that’s part of its charm. Here, the sand is white and fine, without seaweed or rocks, and the water is clear, warm and incredibly peaceful. The slope is gentle, without waves, perfect for a long swim, floating, or just lying in the water and watching time go by. Just a few meters from the shore, tiny fish approach with curiosity – if you stand still, they’ll even peck at your skin, a moment as funny as it is surprising.
On the sides, a few rocks shelter a small marine life. Nothing extraordinary, but enough to put on a mask and spend a good while watching the fish. Playa del Ica is also lined with trees, offering valuable areas of shade, ideal when the Caribbean sun becomes more intense.
Just behind the beach, Hotel Cabaña El Paraíso boasts a bar overlooking the beach. The perfect place to take a break, cocktail in hand, facing the water. Nearby, a military base serves as a discreet reminder that we’re on the border with Panama, without detracting from the peaceful atmosphere.
During the day, a few boats may dock at the small pontoon. They come from Capurganá or Necoclí, dropping off visitors on excursions for a few hours. But don’t worry: the crowds remain reasonable, and by late afternoon, around 4 – 4.30pm, the beach is calm again. At this time of day, Playa del Ica becomes almost deserted, bathed in soft light, ideal for ending the day in style.
How to get to Playa del Ica from Sapzurro
From the village, just follow the path heading north. You skirt the sea, pass over a few concrete pontoons, then take a small dirt path alongside the boat service station. The beach is just beyond. A five-minute walk takes you from the village to this little corner of paradise.
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Where to stay in Sapzurro?
Sapzurro is the nearest Colombian village to La Miel, just a 45-minute walk away (boat shuttles are also available). The nearby village of Capurganá is also an option, but takes around 3 hours on foot or by boat.
Here’s a selection of the best accommodation in Sapzurro, to suit all budgets.
$ – Economical budgeting
Hostal
Hostal Hilltop
Hostal Hilltop in Sapzurro is a youth hostel appreciated for its beachfront location and superb views. Customer reviews are generally positive, highlighting the warm welcome, friendly atmosphere and comfortable rooms. On the other hand, installations remain simple, less suited to those seeking greater comfort.
$ – Economical budgeting
Hostal
La Posada Hostal
Posada Hostal is highly rated for its seafront location, cleanliness and relaxed atmosphere, with friendly hosts who help organize activities and excursions. The camping areas and rooms are considered clean and well-equipped, and the catering is appreciated. A few reviews mention variable interactions with staff, but the overall picture remains very positive.
$$ – Average budget
Hotel
Casa Hotel La Mariela
Casa Hotel La Mariela is highly appreciated by travelers for its cleanliness, comfort and convenient location, just a short distance from the beach. Reviews praise the warm welcome, clean rooms and good continental breakfast, as well as help in organizing local activities. Some travelers note, however, that access to some beaches is just a short walk away.
$$ – Average budget
Hotel
Cafe del Mar
Cafe del Mar in Sapzurro is appreciated for its seaside location, the cleanliness of its rooms and thewarm welcome of its hosts. Visitors love the home cooking and the tranquil atmosphere overlooking a little-used beach. A few reviews point to minor local power cuts, but overall it’s an excellent option for a quiet, authentic stay.
$$$ – High budget
Hotel
Hotel Cabañas El Paraíso
Hotel Boutique Cabañas El Paraíso is well noted for its location opposite Ica beach, offering direct access to the turquoise waters of Sapzurro and a peaceful tropical ambience. Reviews highlight the cabañas’ comfort, air conditioning and Starlink Wi-Fi, as well as the on-site restaurant. It’s located next to the Sapzurro military base, where music can sometimes be heard late at night on certain weekends.
$$$ – High budget
Hotel
El Fin del Estrés
El Fin del Estrés is a glamping site appreciated for its secluded seaside location outside the village, its clean, comfortable cabañas and the warm welcome offered by the staff. Guests praise the peaceful ambience, Jacuzzi and direct access to the beach. Access may require a short walk from the landing stage, but it’s an excellent option for an authentic, relaxing stay.
